New Car Registration Process: A Complete Guide
Key Highlights:
- The cost of registering a new car varies with the powertrain, ex-showroom cost and state taxation.
- Dealerships can significantly streamline the process (especially paperwork) at a service cost.
- A temporary registration is valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on the state.
Essential Documents for New Car Registration in India
Ensuring all documents are complete and accurate will prevent unnecessary delays in processing your application. Keep multiple photocopies of each document, as you may need to submit them at different stages. Before initiating the registration process, ensure you have these documents:
- Car invoice/sale certificate from the dealer
- Valid comprehensive insurance certificate
- Address proof (passport, Aadhaar card or utility bill)
- Identity proof (PAN card or Form 60)
- Temporary registration certificate
- Form 20 (Application for registration of a motor vehicle)
- Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate
- NOC from the financing bank (for financed vehicles)
Temporary Registration Process
When purchasing a new car, the dealer typically handles the temporary registration. This provisional certificate remains valid for 30-90 days (depending on your state) and allows you to legally drive while awaiting permanent registration. The temporary registration includes:
- A temporary registration number
- Basic vehicle details
- Owner information
- Validity period
The dealer affixes temporary number plates to your vehicle, which must be replaced with permanent ones after completing the full registration process. Remember that driving with an expired temporary registration is illegal and subject to penalties.
You must apply for permanent registration before your temporary certificate expires. Many dealers offer registration assistance as part of their service package, handling the paperwork and RTO visits on your behalf for an additional fee. If managing the process yourself, begin the application at least two weeks before your temporary registration expires.
Applying for Permanent Registration
Many states now offer online application submission, reducing the need for multiple RTO visits and streamlining the process considerably. To register a new car in India, one must follow these steps:
1. Visiting the local RTO
Visit the RTO office in your residential jurisdiction or use online portals where available.
2. Submit Form 20
Complete the application form with accurate vehicle details, including make, model, engine number, chassis number and fuel type.
3. Attach required documents
Submit all documents listed in the earlier section along with the temporary registration certificate.
4. Pay registration fees and road tax
The fee structure varies based on your vehicle's cost, engine capacity, and state regulations.
5. Schedule vehicle inspection
The RTO will verify your car's chassis and engine numbers, in addition to checking compliance with safety and pollution norms.
6. Receive your registration certificate: After successful verification and fee payment, the RTO issues your permanent registration certificate.
Costs Involved
The cost of registering a new car in India includes several components.
- Registration fee: A standard fee based on vehicle category
- Road tax: Calculated based on vehicle cost, powertrain type, ICE engine capacity, and state-specific rates
- Number plate charges: Fee for standard or fancy registration numbers
- Smart card charges: Fee for digital registration certificate
Road tax typically constitutes the largest portion of registration costs and varies significantly between states. Some states offer road tax calculators on their transport department websites to help you estimate the total expense before registration.
Online Car Registration Services
Many states have digitised the registration process, allowing you to:
- Submit applications online
- Upload required documents
- Pay fees through secure payment gateways
- Book inspection appointments
- Track application status
- Download digital copies of your registration certificate
These services significantly reduce processing time and eliminate the need for multiple RTO visits. Check your state transport department's official website to know more.
Receiving Your Registration Certificate and Number Plates
After processing your application, the RTO issues a permanent Registration Certificate (RC). Modern RCs come in a smart card format containing:
- Vehicle specifications
- Owner details
- Registration number
- Tax payment information
- Insurance validity
You must then affix standardised number plates to your vehicle. These plates must follow government specifications regarding size, font, and colour (white background with black text for private vehicles). Many RTOs now issue High-Security Registration Plates (HSRPs) with additional security features to prevent tampering and theft.
FAQ
1. What documents are required for new car registration?
You need the following documents: the invoice from the dealer, Form 20 (vehicle registration form), Form 21 (sale certificate from the dealer), proof of address, proof of identity, insurance certificate, temporary registration certificate (if issued), and PAN card.
2. Can I register a new car online?
Yes, many states allow online registration through the official Vahan portal. You can submit documents, pay fees and book RTO appointments online.
3. Do I need insurance before registering a new car?
Yes, valid third-party insurance is mandatory in India before you can register a vehicle.
4. How long does it take to get the RC after registration?
Typically, the registration certificate is issued within 7 to 15 days after completing the RTO process, depending on the state and workload.
5. Can I transfer registration if I move to another state?
Yes, you must re-register your car in the new state and update the RTO records, usually within 12 months of relocating.